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We’ve got a good feeling about the holidays this year. Sure, last year had its fair share of mishaps (we’re still kicking ourselves for not defrosting the turkey earlier) but we’re leaving them in the past and heading into the season with positive thoughts. We’re going to nail holiday hosting this year, create memorable experiences and throw one epic party — and so can you.
Let's not kid ourselves, though, because the holidays can be a challenge. To succeed in your role as the cool, calm, collected master host, it’s important to plan ahead.
Start prepping for the season with the delicious beverages you'll serve this year. They'll be the lifeblood of your memorable party. Drinks are enjoyed the moment warm greetings are exchanged, during the throes of pre-dinner banter and while everyone is loosening their belts after the feast.
To help you choose your bottles wisely, we've rounded up a few versatile, well-loved tipples that will keep your friends and family feeling merry all season long.
Four bottles to add to your holiday bar cart
1. Castello di Gabbiano Chianti Classico
The holidays are the best time to bring out that special bottle of wine you’ve been excited to try all year. Castello di Gabbiano Chianti Classico is an excellent choice to elevate your carefully prepared feast. It’s a versatile Tuscan wine with pleasant notes of red cherry, gentle baking spices and white pepper. You'll also find a bright acidity that beautifully complements the culinary delights you plan on serving. We recommend pairing this Tuscan red with provolone, parmesan, pecorino with truffles, a meat-packed pasta, grilled steak, mushroom risotto or roasted pork — but it's delicious with just about anything.
2. Gabbiano Pinot Grigio IGT
Choose Gabbiano Pinot Grigio IGT as your white serve for the evening to impress your oenophile friends. This Venetian vino will entice guests with its apple, orange and floral aromas, then transport them to the tropics with flavours of exotic fruit and a hint of almonds. It goes hand-in-hand with creamy pastas, succulent roasted chicken and the mature cheeses you’ll bring out to pique everyone’s appetite.
3. Harveys Bristol Sherry
Revealing Harveys Bristol Sherry will rouse a few "ooh"s and "aah"s from the party. Medium-bodied and rich, it’s a delicate blend of floral, caramel and dried citrus. When you’re carting out dessert, make sure a glass of this deep-gold cream sherry is by its side. Or serve it in a cocktail like the Harveys Sweet Apple Zing.
Make the Harveys Sweet Apple Zing cocktail recipe
4. The Wiseman Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
You’ll want a good whisky on hand for when everyone migrates from the dinner table to the fireplace. Serve a silky dram of The Wiseman Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey neat, poured over some rocks or in a baking spice-infused cocktail like the Wise Chai New Fashioned. The Wiseman is a real show-stopper and the perfect end to a festive evening.
Make the Wise Chai New Fashioned cocktail recipe
Catering to guests with diverse tastes will be a breeze with these four versatile tipples. Plus, they'll easily elevate your carefully prepared holiday meal. You can sit back, relax and feel content that this year, you’ve finally earned the title of master host.
